2010 Belle Pente Vineyard Pinot Noir Estate Reserve
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Tasting notes
The 2010 Pinot Noir Estate Reserve was picked on 18 and 19 October at 22 Brix, but enjoyed a long hang time due to the early bud break. Matured in 50% new French oak, it has a lifted and quite floral bouquet that does not quite possess the delineation of the 2011. Yet there is still very impressive purity here and I am sure it will evolve more complexity with time. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp, edgy tannin. Cranberry leaf, strawberry and spicy notes (white pepper and marjoram) emerge towards the structured finish, plus there is fine salinity on the aftertaste. This is a very fine Pinot Noir that is just beginning to drink.
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Average Score
Josh Raynolds
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Bright ruby-red. A highly complex bouquet displays sexy red berry preserve, incense and candied rose scents, along with suggestions of cola, mocha and allspice. Sappy, deeply concentrated cherry and raspberry flavors are lifted and braced by juicy acidity and show excellent clarity and thrust. Closes with palate-staining intensity and sweetness, leaving suave floral and Asian spice notes behind. Impressively balanced and fine-grained, with serious cellaring potential.